Strict religious convictions influenced Margaret Stohl's upbringing and followed her family when they moved from their hometown to the busy metropolis of Los Angeles. They entered this new phase of their lives as a result of her father's career change.

Consider moving a robust oak tree from its native land into a concrete jungle. In the same way that Margaret carried her religious background with her when she relocated to a place that was very different from her previous surroundings, the tree carries the memories and customs of its former location. Margaret and the tree both had to adjust while retaining their essential identities, so this change was important to them both.

During her early years, Stohl's upbringing in a community steeped in Christian orthodoxy gave her a strong sense of morality and belonging. Moving to Los Angeles, however, exposed her to a variety of cultures and ideologies, which surely impacted her later creative work and personal growth.

This quotation illustrates how a person's early experiences can continue to influence their identity and worldview even as they come across new situations that contradict or broaden their preconceived notions. Margaret discovered ways to combine her past and present, enhancing herself and her Los Angeles community, much like the oak tree managed to flourish in its new environment while remaining true to its nature.